What are Some Comfortable Earplugs for Musicians?

Quality ear protection is often necessary for musicians because they are exposed to potentially dangerous volumes. There are special types of earplugs designed for musicians that are recommended by an audiologist. Musicians need ear protection but they also want to be able to hear the music they’re producing. An audiologist will often suggest some high-fidelity earplugs, which attenuate sound evenly as well as reducing the overall volume. Traditional ear protection can distort or muffle sounds otherwise. Musicians’ earplugs can also be custom made, making them very comfortable.

Why do musicians need ear protection?

Loud sounds are potentially damaging to your ears, this includes music. Musicians and frequent concert goers often wear earplugs for this reason to protect their hearing. Sound is measured in decibels and below 70db is considered safe. Anything over 85db could possibly damage your hearing over time. The average rock concert, for example, is around 100 or more, and even mixing and editing music can exceed volumes of 80db. Seen as musicians experience prolonged exposure to these levels, ear protection is recommended.

Types of hearing protection

There are a multitude of options available to protect your hearing. Deciding on the right hearing protection for you will depend on your specific needs. Factors that will be considered, include:

• How frequently you wear the protection
• The duration you wear it each day
• The activity you’re participating in
• The volume of sounds around you

High volumes could cause hearing loss or tinnitus, a ringing in the ear. The longer you are exposed to them the higher the risk. Musicians should wear earplugs as often as possible, especially if they’re playing live. Certain types of earplugs are more comfortable and effective for musicians. The best types are high fidelity or musicians’ earplugs, or custom made.

Additional types of hearing protection are also available, including:

• In-ear monitors
• Earmuffs
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Activity-specific options like sleep, hunting, motorsports and swimming

High-fidelity earplugs

High-fidelity earplugs are specially designed for musicians. They work by attenuating the sound evenly without distorting it. An acoustic filter reduces the volume in a uniform way. This means the music volume is lowered but it remains clear to listen to, and each instrument is heard at an even balance. This helps musicians record and play music but keeps the volume at a safe level. 

These earplugs are better for musicians than traditional types of ear protection because they allow them to listen to the music evenly. Disposable or flanged earplugs, for instance, won’t give the same level of clarity and aren’t as comfortable. They are also more difficult to insert and remove. 

Custom-made earplugs

Musicians’ earplugs can be either one size fits all or custom made, and they are normally reusable. Custom-made earplugs are a great option for musicians because they are the most comfortable. Custom-made earplugs are molded to fit your inner ear, which ensures a secure fit. An audiologist will make a mold of the wearer’s ear and use these impressions to produce the earplugs. 

Custom earplugs are the recommended solution for those who need to use them regularly. They not only provide more comfort, but are better quality and last longer than their disposable counterparts. Custom musicians’ earplugs also come with different levels of attenuation, so you can adjust them to your liking.

How can an audiologist help? 

An audiologist can help with the molding and fitting or your custom earplugs. They will take an impression of your inner ear using a digital ear scanner. They then use these impressions to design unique earplugs to fit your ear canal perfectly. An audiologist will also be able to recommend the most suitable type of ear protection for you and offer advice on other hearing-related topics.

Your audiologist will also provide you tips with how to store and keep your new hearing protection clean. This will usually involve wiping off your protection with a damp cloth to remove any leftover earwax or debris. Most hearing protection will be stored in a case when not in use – to prevent it from being damaged and to keep it clean.

If you have been exposed to loud sounds and have developed hearing loss or tinnitus as a result, they will also be able to offer appropriate treatments. Audiologists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions impacting your auditory system.

At Advanced Hearing Services, we provide help and advice about hearing protection, devices, and fitting. Our friendly team is available for all the information you need. If you would like to learn more about Advanced Hearing Services contact us at (970) 449-0592.